Director

Vision and Eye Research Unit (VERU), Postgraduate Medical Institute

Professor Pardhan joined Anglia Polytechnic University as the first female professor of Optometry in the UK. In 2009 she took up position as the inaugural director of the Vision and Eye Research Unit (VERU) based within the Postgraduate Medical Institute.

Background

Shahina Pardhan qualified with First Class Honours in Optometry from the University of Bradford in 1984 when she was also awarded the Yorkshire Optical Society’s ‘Best Student Prize’. In 1986, having been awarded a research studentship from the British College of Optometrists and a further scholarship from the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of the United Kingdom as a foreign student of outstanding merit, she commenced her PhD and was awarded a doctorate in 1989.

In 2001 she joined Anglia Polytechnic University as the first female professor of Optometry in the UK. In 2009 she took up position as the inaugural director of the Vision and Eye Research Unit (VERU) based within the Postgraduate Medical Institute. Under her leadership VERU has developed into an international research Centre. She supports and facilitates vision and eye research within the different departments in Anglia Ruskin University. She has also built a team comprising four consultant ophthalmologists, as part–time professors, and post-doctoral research fellows. Shahina led the successful Research Excellence Framework 2014 for Allied Health Professions which resulted in 100% of VERU’s profile being rated as world class, internationally excellent and excellent (84% rated as world class/internationally excellent). The impact and reach of VERU’s research activities was rated as 100% world class and internationally excellent.

Shahina is a recipient of the Asian Jewel Award - Health Care and Education category (2005), the Asian Women of Achievement Award - Professions category (2001) and the first Ismaili Award for Excellence in the Postgraduate category (1992).

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